A slightly older contemporary of Vivaldi, Alessandro Marcello is a less well-known composer of the early eighteenth century, whose home town was Venice and whose younger brother was the more prolific Benedetto. These well-crafted concerti, the most famous works among his output, are sadly infrequently performed. The six 'La Cetra' concertos are unusual for their wind solo parts, instrumental contrasts and combinations, and use of counterpoint within a broadly, Vivaldian style. They provide a cross-section of Marcello's instrumental style of composition and can be seen as a last outpost of the classic Venetian baroque concerto.

FanfareContributing significantly to the picture of eighteenth-century Venetian musical life, this essay by Standage and the Collegium Musicum 90 will provide compulsory study material for aficionados of the era and spiritual citizens of La Serenissima. Recommended.